Statement on the commemoration of the 76 International Day of UN Peacekeepers

On behalf of the United Nations family in Ghana, I extend a warm welcome to all of you gathered here at the forecourt of the State House for the observation of the International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers. The presence of our esteemed peacekeepers— Ghana Armed Forces, police, immigration, prisons, and civilians—underscores the vital role they play in fostering global peace.

Today, as we commemorate the International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers, we honor the extraordinary contributions of those who have served on the frontlines, striving to bring peace and stability to war-torn regions. Over the past 75 years, UN Peacekeeping has evolved into a crucial tool for conflict resolution and the promotion of international peace and security. Since 1948, more than two million peacekeepers have dedicated themselves to this noble cause, guiding communities from conflict to peace. Currently, over 76,000 peacekeepers from more than 120 countries are deployed in 11 global operations, tirelessly working to foster peace and stability for millions affected by conflict.

Peacekeeping in Africa: Since the establishment of the UN, at least 25 peacekeeping operations have been conducted across Africa, beginning with the United Nations Operation in Congo (1960-1964). From the late 1980s to the present, the number of UN Peacekeeping operations in Africa has increased, achieving varying degrees of success. As at March 2024, there are four peacekeeping operations in Africa.

Success Stories

UN peacekeeping operations have significantly contributed to regional and international stability by protecting civilians, strengthening institutions, empowering communities, enhancing women's and youths' governance participation, and supporting humanitarian efforts. In Liberia, the mission disarmed over 100,000 combatants, secured 21,000 weapons, repatriated one million refugees, and organized peaceful elections. In Côte d'Ivoire, the UN addressed post-electoral violence following the 2011 elections. In Sierra Leone, UN missions ended the civil war and supported democratic transition. In Guinea-Bissau, the UN helped implement the Conakry Agreement and ECOWAS's roadmap to resolve the political crisis.

The Role and Sacrifice of UN Peacekeepers

These success stories are underpinned by the dedication and sacrifices of peacekeepers. In 2023, 61 peacekeepers, including five Ghanaians, lost their lives. They will be posthumously awarded the Dag Hammarskjöld Medal on 30 May 2024 at the UN Headquarters. At this juncture, I would like to pay tribute to: 

• Staff Sergeant Mensah Alex Ameyaw of UNIFIL
• Warrant Officer Class 2 Ibrahim Abubakari of UNIFIL
• Lance Corporal Emmanuel Adjei Nii Addo of UNESFA
• Mr. Michael Sowah of UNMISS and
• Mr. Jeduah Mahama Abudu of UNSOM

May their souls rest in peace. Our condolences to the bereaved families, their loved ones and Ghana as a whole.

We recognize the bravery and commitment of peacekeepers worldwide, embodying unity, resilience, and hope. This year's theme, “Fit for the Future: Building Better Together,” underscores UN Peacekeeping's role in transitioning countries from conflict to peace. It emphasizes the organization's adaptation to future challenges, focusing on youth, peace, and security. Efforts under A4P and A4P+ aim to enhance mandate implementation and highlight the impact of peacekeeping missions. Despite evolving challenges, peacekeepers remain dedicated to safeguarding civilians, saving lives, and promoting peace and stability in collaboration with various stakeholders.

Honoring the Fallen UN Staff

Let us also remember UN staff who have fallen in the line of duty. Since 2011, the Secretary-General has held an Annual Memorial Service to honor colleagues who have lost their lives while serving. This year’s service will be held on Thursday, June 6, 2024, to honor personnel who died between January 1 and December 31, 2023. It is my honor to invite you all to participate in this event.

It is sad to note that more than 190 UN staff have been killed in the Israeli war on Gaza, according to the latest figures from the global body, sparking widespread concern and calls for a permanent ceasefire in the besieged Palestinian enclave.

Acknowledging Ghana’s Role in International Peacekeeping and the host of the Peacekeeping Ministerial Meeting

Ghana, the 7th largest troop-contributing country, excels in global peacekeeping, with significant contributions from women. Since 1958, the number of women in the Ghana Armed Forces has grown, promoting women in leadership and military roles. Naval Captain Veronica Adzo highlights women as a "force multiplier." I commend the Ghana Armed Forces for the launch of the Gender Policy to advance gender inclusion. The UN thanks you, Ghana

I would like to extend my gratitude and congratulations to Ghana for hosting the first-ever Peacekeeping Ministerial on African soil in Accra in December 2023. The event was a great success, and Ghana made us proud. I also thank all the countries that contributed to supporting peacekeeping efforts, particularly those that supported the events in Accra. Your support is greatly appreciated.

The Need for a New Approach to Peacekeeping

Changing political, social, and economic landscapes challenge peacekeeping with insecurity, terrorism, poor governance, humanitarian crises, climate change, and economic hardship. Mali highlights peacekeeping limitations amid geopolitical dynamics and community demands.  Adapting peacekeeping strategies and addressing intercommunal conflicts with long-term approaches are essential as conventional efforts face significant obstacles, necessitating innovative responses. We welcome the thinking of key actors including the KAIPTC on this important evolution, even as we congratulate them for their work today. 

Call to Action

The upcoming Summit of the Future in September offers a chance to reaffirm our peacekeeping commitment and address future challenges. Effective collaboration with UN agencies, humanitarian organizations, local communities, women, youth, media, host governments, troop and police contributors, and member states is essential. The Department of Peace Operations launched a month-long social media campaign sharing inspiring stories of peacekeepers and partnerships promoting peace and sustainable development. Ghana is featured in this campaign. Join the call to action using hashtags #PeaceBegins and #PKDay to raise awareness of UN peacekeepers' essential work.

The Secretary-General Message for the International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers

On this note, permit me to read to you the Secretary-General’s Message fof the International Day of UN Peacekeepers

Today we pay tribute to the more than 76,000 United Nations peacekeepers who embody humanity’s highest ideal: peace.

Hailing from over 120 countries, our Blue Helmets serve in 11 peace operations in conflict-affected areas in Africa, Asia, Europe and the Middle East.

Day in and day out, at great personal risk, these women and men bravely work in some of the most dangerous and unstable places on earth to protect civilians, uphold human rights, support elections and strengthen institutions.

They are part of a long tradition. For over 75 years, United Nations peacekeepers have supported communities rocked by conflict and upheaval across 71 missions.

More than 4,300 have paid the ultimate price while serving under the UN flag. We will never forget them.

In order for our peacekeepers to respond to the challenges of today and tomorrow, they need the world’s support.

September’s Summit of the Future will be a moment for countries to carry ideas forward through a New Agenda for Peace, which links peacekeeping with all efforts to prevent and end conflict. 

Achieving peace takes hard work.

On this important day, and every day, let’s re-commit to supporting those who work for peace: The UN peacekeepers.

Election 2024 and Peace

And while we are at the subject of peace in the election in Ghana, let us all join hands to keep Ghana safe and peaceful. We encourage you all to join the I pledge for peace campaign, launched last year in collaboration with the National Peace Council 

Conclusion

In closing, let us reaffirm our commitment to peace, collaboration, and innovation. Together, we can build a better future where conflict gives way to lasting peace, and hope triumphs over despair.

Thank you, and may our collective efforts continue to make a difference in the lives of those affected by conflict.